Lifestyle

Lifestyle, Polo News, Real Estate, Travel & Food

Louisa‘s Place Hotel Berlin – a feeling of fine lifestyle

18. April 2024

Louisa’s Place combines the best of two worlds: the typical charm of Berlin’s Golden Age with contemporary luxury and first-class service.

Our privately run boutique hotel is located in the pulsating heart of West Berlin, directly on the legendary Kurfürstendamm. The outstanding quality of this individual hotel is its uniqueness. Instead of the usual units, it offers spacious rooms and suites ranging in size from 46 to 117 square meters. This exceeds the standards of conventional hotels by far. Discerning guests who appreciate not only luxury but also a private atmosphere and exclusive comforts will find their retreat here.

Louisa’s Place reveals itself as a classically elegant city palace that impresses with its attention to detail. From the library with its fine wood paneling to the garden room with its marble-framed fireplace and silk wallpaper, every corner exudes timeless elegance. Almost all the rooms & suites have separate sleeping and living areas, and some even offer additional amenities such as a private workroom, winter garden or balcony. Another absolute specialty is the fully equipped kitchen in all rooms – especially for long-term stays and families.

But what really sets Louisa’s Place apart from other hotels is its exceptional service. Here, hospitality is not a duty, it´s a passion. Every guest is looked after personally, from the handwritten welcome letter to individual assistance with shopping and other requests. The hotel exudes an atmosphere of exclusivity and warmth that makes every stay an unforgettable experience.

However Louisa’s Place also leaves nothing to be desired in terms of facilities. A private pool, sauna and steam bath, a gym and massage treatments ensure relaxation and well-being. A hairdressing salon, a trendy restaurant and the exciting Vesper Bar invite you to linger, while the small inner courtyard with garden is a green oasis in the middle of the vibrant capital.

Louisa’s Place Hotel combines the best of two worlds: the typical Berlin charm of an historic building paired with contemporary luxury and first-class service. The hotel’s host Sven Schimank and his internationally experienced team stand for professionalism, discretion and personal service at the highest level.

For fans of polo, Louisa’s Place Hotel is more than just a place to stay – it is a lifestyle statement. This is where tradition, present and future meet. Here luxury is not only felt in amenities, but also in a unique experience for the senses. Welcome to Louisa’s Place, where the charm of Berlin meets exclusive lifestyle.

Contact & Booking:
info@louisas-place.de
+49 (0)30 631 03
www.louisas-place.de

Text: Louisa’s Place Hotel Berlin
Photography: Cathleen Herwarth von Bittenfeld

Louisa’s Place combines the best of two worlds: the typical charm of Berlin’s Golden Age with contemporary luxury and first-class service. Our privately run boutique hotel is located in the…

Lifestyle, Polo News

8 stunning rooftop bars in Europe for sparkling late summer evenings

2. September 2022

Breathtaking views and vistas from cloud 9 – beautiful rooftops from Amsterdam to Venice

Berlin/London, 1. September 2022 (kms) – Late summer is approaching and with it, those balmy late summer evenings. Fittingly, three meteor showers will produce the greatest number of shooting stars in September. Up to 150 shooting stars per hour can lights up the sky and according to a legend, watching those make wishes come true. Is there any better location to experience this than the beautiful rooftop bars of Hilton in Europe? In these bars, you can enjoy the evening with a cool drink and perhaps you can also send some wishes to the sky.

Croatia: breathtaking view of the Adriatic Sea

A breathtaking view of the Adriatic Sea, cool drinks, and exquisite cuisine are offered by the Michellin-starred Nebo Restaurant & Lounge by Dani at Hilton Rijeka Costabella Beach Resort & Spa. Chef Deni Srdoč, who inherited his love of cooking from his grandmother, combines traditional Mediterranean with Croatian cuisine. But before heading to dinner, be sure to sip a craft cocktail, prepared by the expert team of mixologists while enjoying the endless view across the ocean.

Paris: In sight of the Eiffel Tower

Paris, city of lovers, city to fall in love with – and the Eiffel Tower always in view. From the Eylau’s rooftop bar at Canopy by Hilton Paris Trocadero, you can start the evening with sharing platters and creative cocktails such as „The Balance ton Mojito“ or local craft beers while enjoying the view of France’s charming capital. The hotel of the lifestyle brand Canopy by Hilton is located in the 16th district of Paris, the Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Elysees, and the Bois de Boulogne are less than ten minutes away. From the bar you can not only get a good view of the Eiffel Tower, one kilometer away, but you also might get the chance to count some shooting stars.

Cologne: 360 degree view of the metropolis at the Rhine

Where else could you gaze across Cologne’s night sky in more style and with more historical ties than at the new Wasserturm Hotel Cologne, Curio Collection by Hilton? The water tower was once the highest in Europe, and today the lobby is eleven meters above the ground. But the highlight is the Bar Botanik on the roof of the water tower. Not only is there a magnificent 360° view, but also there is a wide selection of different drinks, from traditional Kölsch to the hotel’s own Oriental Tea Time. In the unique atmosphere of a botanical greenhouse, where lush greenery meets industrial charm, it is a relaxed place to enjoy the evening, while listeling to cool lounge music from top live DJs.

Italy: Glamour view of Lake Como

Lake Como itself is exclusive already. Embedded in an impressive mountain panorama, its three arms flow together in the resort of Bellagio. Hilton Lake Como offers unparalled views of the lake and surrounding mountains. There is a roof-top infinity pool, so you can enjoy the breathtaking views while swimming or enjoying poolside snacks in the summer season. Terrazza 241 is also a magnificient outoor terrace to have breakfast above the rooftops of Como or start a glamorous evening with drinks and upscale dining.

Amsterdam: Enjoy after a day in the old town

Picturesque canals, houses steeped in history – DoubleTree by Hilton Amsterdam Centraal Station is right on the doorstep of Amsterdam’s old town. Those arriving by train can explore the city on foot. The Royal Palace, the Museumsplein, the old church – everything is in the neighborhood. Back at the hotel in the evening, guest can admire panoramic views of the vibrant capital of The Netherlands. Sky Lounge Amsterdam, which has been elected as the best hotel bar of the city, is on the 11th floor of the hotel and offers cocktails like Sky Spritz or Summer Storm as well as light snacks like avocado with poached egg and seaweed or the classic Croque Monsieur.

London: A cocktail in honor of the ravens in the Tower

It’s considered London’s wildest rooftop bar: Savage Garden at DoubleTree by Hilton London – Tower of London. The iconic castle, which now houses the British crown jewels, is in the immediate vicinity and just a five-minute walk away. While it’s surrounded by pubs, the absolute highlight is atop the hotel itself: the Savage. According to the motto “A little party never killed anybody” – very special parties take place at the Savage. Special parties naturally include special drinks, such as St. Olave, where gin meets an ancient liqueur made by monks, or Raven Master, which was created in reference to the ravens in the Tower.

Venice: The best view of the historic city

Some things seem even more beautiful when viewed from afar, as if you were right in the middle of them: Hilton Molino Stucky Venice is located on the elongated Guidecca Island, which runs parallel to Venice’s main island. It is housed in a former flour mill that is considered Venice’s most important industrial monument. On the roof of the historic building, however, there’s not only a wonderful pool, but also the Skyline Bar, from which you can take in the panorama of the main island’s buildings steeped in history. The city is so close that you can still hear its heartbeat, but at the same time far enough away to perceive it as a whole. Skyline Bar is the highest bar in Venice where guests can treat themselves with delicious and creative cocktails prepared by expert mixologists while enjoying live music.

Prague: See the Old Town from Cloud Nine

“Cloud Nine” is the name of Hilton Prague’s rooftop bar. 40 meters above the Vlatva River, not only one, but two roof top terraces offer a phenomenal view of the Old Town with St. Vitus Cathedral and Prague Castle. The entire city is virtually at the guests’ feet. It is especially beautiful in the blue hour, when the lights of the houses are turned on, but it is not yet so dark that you can no longer recognize the buildings. From Cloud Nine, enjoy the splendid views and cocktails, while soaking up the chic urban atmosphere. And if guests crave a snack accompanying the delicious drinks, they can choose from a variety of sharing platters, perfect for an evening together with friends.

About Hilton

Hilton (NYSE: HLT) is a leading global hospitality company with a portfolio of 18 world-class brands comprising 7,000 properties and 1.1 million rooms, in 122 countries and territories. Dedicated to fulfilling its founding vision to fill the earth with the light and warmth of hospitality, Hilton has welcomed more than 3 billion guests in its more than 100-year history, earned a top spot on Fortune’s 100 Best Companies to Work For list and been recognized as a global leader on the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices for five consecutive years. Hilton has introduced several industry-leading technology enhancements to improve the guest experience, including Digital Key Share, automated complimentary room upgrades and the ability to book confirmed connecting rooms. Through the award-winning guest loyalty program Hilton Honors, the 139 million members who book directly with Hilton can earn Points for hotel stays and experiences money can’t buy. With the free Hilton Honors app, guests can book their stay, select their room, check in, unlock their door with a Digital Key and check out, all from their smartphone. Visit stories.hilton.com for more information, and connect with Hilton on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube.

Photos: © 2022 Hilton

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Breathtaking views and vistas from cloud 9 – beautiful rooftops from Amsterdam to Venice Berlin/London, 1. September 2022 (kms) – Late summer is approaching and with it, those balmy late summer…

Lifestyle, Personalities & Clubs, Polo News

Wendy Falourd: Polo, Lifestyle and Travel Photography

7. March 2022

“Photography has always been one of the most powerful means of expression and transmission, and I feel proud to be able to use it in my own way to tell my life experiences.”

Tell us a bit about yourself ?
I was born in the South-West of France, near Bordeaux. Then in 2004, for my dad’s work, we moved to Long Island, New York, until 2009. Those few years were life-changing as they allowed me to learn a new language at an early age and to meet many people from many different cultures. I am sure that this is what triggered my love for travel.

How long have you been around horses ?
I’ve been in the equestrian world since I was born. My mom used to ride cross country competitions when she was younger, and my dad used to be a racehorse trainer. Horses have always been a family affair.

I used to ride in show jumping until 2016 when I switched to polo. I have been fond of this world ever since.

Have you always wanted to become an equestrian photographer ?
Not at all. Initially, I wanted to dedicate my career to events and communication. After five years of post-graduate degrees and many professional experiences in high-end firms like Peretti Communications (PR agency) in London and several at Hermès in Paris, I was sure it was the path I wanted to follow.

How did photography became your new career ?
I started photography as a hobby by taking photos of my friends in show jumping competitions. Then, when I started playing polo in 2016, I also switched to polo photography. As previously mentioned, my career projects didn’t initially include photography. However, as I finished my studies in April 2020, COVID had started, and it became almost impossible to find a job in events. That is when I decided to start taking photos professionally and create my company, WF Unlimited,
in September 2020.

How would you describe your photography and where do you see it heading ?
I consider my photos to be more lifestyle than sports-oriented. I love to take action shots during a game, but my main objective is to find those unique moments on and off the field. Getting to capture emotions from the players and from the horses themselves is one of the highlights of my job. Indeed, I truly identify myself to Destin Sparks’ quote, “Photography is the Story I Fail to Put Into Words”, as the emotions that I get to immortalize are the root of my stories.

As previously said, I love to travel around the world. During my two trips to Patagonia, Argentina, I got the opportunity to photograph the life of Argentine gauchos working with their cattle. At that moment, I realized how much I loved photographing these authentic people in their environment. I feel proud to have had the ability to capture their dedication to their work and share their life story with an international community.

That is why my wish for the upcoming years is to travel around the world, discover more cultures and try to honor their lifestyles with my photography.

As Steve McCurry said:
« I can’t imagine a better life than travelling and photographing ».

Portrait of Wendy Falourd, covered in dust,
after having followed gauchos up the mountains
with their cattle in Mamuil Malal, Patagonia,
December 2021.

Photos by Wendy Falourd

@wfldphotography

“Photography has always been one of the most powerful means of expression and transmission, and I feel proud to be able to use it in my own way to tell…

Art & Design, Fashion, Lifestyle, Polo News

THE DOUBLE C DE CARTIER BAG

29. April 2021

A MINIMALIST SHAPE THAT HAS PROVEN ITS WORTH, A STRICT UNIFORM AND IMPECCABLE MAINTENANCE: THE NEW DOUBLE C DE CARTIER BAG HAS A LONG LIFE AHEAD.

A typically Grande Maison bag, whose jewelled clasp with Cartier’s initials sets the tone: a metal logo enhanced by a delicate touch of lacquer.

ORIGINALLY, IT WAS THE SAME INITIAL MULTIPLIED BY TWO, that of a Parisian family name that crossed the borders of France in the beginning of the 20th century, under the leadership of three jeweller brothers and their father.

A C within a C, two stylised letters inscribed as a token of an exceptional tradition, on the red wax that the jeweller used to seal his gift packages. It is now the focus of the metal C bag.

“We sought to modernise the logo by freeing it from the interior oval, where it had previously appeared on the Maison’s bags. We handled it like a piece of jewellery, with particular attention being paid to its unexpected opening. For the first time, its presence is both aesthetic and functional, not to mention the pretty click sound it makes when closed, further enhancing its jewel clasp.

Moreover, the highly structured bag shape is so streamlined that it allows the clasp to shine. The bag is its perfect backdrop. It was designed to be worn two ways: ‘over the shoulder or crossbody’, thanks to its adjustable shoulder strap.” MARIN YUSON, DIRECTOR OF LEATHER AND LEATHER ACCESSORY CREATION

NEITHER TOO SMALL NOR TOO BIG, A TRULY URBAN PIECE, THE DOUBLE C BAG IS A TIMELESS CLASSIC IN ANY WARDROBE.

It can be worn over the shoulder or across the body. Always chic, with the right size and right proportions, it structures every look. A question of style and elegance that boils down to the essentials: simple lines, shoulder strap, smooth leather.

THE COLLECTION

DEEP BLACK, INTENSE RED, POWDERED PINK, FUCHSIA PINK:

from the most sensible to the most pop colours, the leather of the Metal C bag radiates with just the right amount of shine to spice up the silhouette.

The metal C bag consists of two versions, a large and a small model, available in four colours, which meet the essentials of small leather goods.

www.int.cartier.com

A MINIMALIST SHAPE THAT HAS PROVEN ITS WORTH, A STRICT UNIFORM AND IMPECCABLE MAINTENANCE: THE NEW DOUBLE C DE CARTIER BAG HAS A LONG LIFE AHEAD. A typically Grande Maison…

Lifestyle, Polo News, South America, Travel & Food

Polo in Brazil – The Helvetia Polo Country Club

28. October 2019

The Helvetia Polo Country Club is the epicentre of polo in Brazil.

Founded in 1975 by Giorgio Moroni, the Club inaugurated its new headquarters in 2014 in the city of Indaiatuba, near the Viracopos International Airport and less than 100 km from the capital São Paulo. Moroni’s idea in the 1970s had been to create a facility with both polo fields and condominiums. Two polo fields and a clubhouse formed the infrastructure of the Helvetia Polo Club in the late 1970s.

In search of support and assistance, Giorgio Moroni invited friends and acquaintances who already had experience in mana-
ging pole clubs to help him. Didi and Mauro Souza Aranha, Sylvio de Andrade Coutinho, José Luiz Herreros and Ronald Scott, José
Carlos Kalil, Luizinho Matarazzo, Antônio Moroni and PG Meirelles began to contribute to the development of the club. Today, the Helvetia Polo Country Club is Brazil’s most important polo club with ten of its own fields and around 20 private courts, making it a reference region for the sport of polo and home to the country’s most traditional polo tournaments with more than 200 players and 3,000 horses each year.

In addition to the major tournaments and regular club activities, the Helvetia Polo Country Club offers its members a polo school where children and adult beginners have the opportunity to learn how to play polo.

www.helvetiapolo.com.br

POLO+10 Interview with Antonio Giorgio Moroni,
grandson of club founder Giorgio Moroni:

Photo: Robson Senne

Can you please give us an overview about the history and development of the Helvetia Polo Country Club?
The club was founded in 1975 by my grandfather Giorgio Moroni with the purpose of gathering polo fields together with a condominium of houses. The club started with only two fields and few partners. Today it has 10 own fields and more than 200 members. Currently the club is the main center of the sport in the country, hosting more than 20 tournaments per year, among them the Brazilian Polo Championship and the Triple Crown of Brazil. Besides all the polo fields and structure, the club has a tennis and beach tennis court, a soccer field, a polo academy, a restaurant, one bar and a playground.

Which are the major tournaments at the Helvetia Polo Club?
The main Helvetia Polo tournaments in the first part of the season are the Brazilian Triple Crown, which consists of the Giorgio Moroni Cup (4, 12 and 20 goals), the Helvetia Open (4, 12 and 20 goals) and the State of São Paulo Open (4, 12 and 24 goals). In the second part oft he season the Brazilian Polo Championship are played – also in three modes: 4, 8 and 16 goals.

How many horses and active players has the HPCC?
The club already welcomed until August 2019 around 200 players taking part in the tournaments. They already played more than 1,500 horses in the club this year. In whole Brazil there are arond 500 players.

How much is a polo lesson and how many different polo classes are you offering?
The polo lessons take place here in the club and cost around USD 100 per class. Usually two to three lessons per week are offered. In the beginning, the coach works on the relationship between horse and rider. After that he begins with the stick & ball training on our wooden horse. Then the players get on the horse and into the saddle. The club coach is called Gilberto “Pateta” Rodrigues. He is an experienced teacher and a former 5-goal-player.

How many chukkers are played at the club per year?
Matches are usually held in 6 chukkers (2 goals tournaments are played in 4 chukkers and 4 goals tournaments in 5). In 2018 Helvetia hosted a total of 24 tournaments and 308 games. And also a lot of practices matches.

How many polo fields and stables do you have at Helvetia Polo Country Club?
Helvetia has 10 fields, 2 in its main social clubhouse and another 8 in a place called Helvetia Village. In addition, Indaiatuba, the city where the club is located, has more than 25 private fields. The club has 104 stables that can be rented by the players per day, month or season. The monthly price is approximately USD 65 (just for the space, the player must have his own groom). Most of the players have their own stables, some with attached fields – and some of them also rent some stables.

What are your aims for the club in the near future?
It is important to maintain and try to be continuously improving the quality of our fields and tournaments in order to always be the reference and the center of polo in Brazil. And of course to attract the best players of Brazil and from all over the World. We also want to gain more players for our sport and improve our polo classes. We are also investing in the club and social infrastructure to be attractive for the polo player’s families and polo fans.

Is there a major difference between polo in Brazil and in other countries?
One of the main differences of polo in Brazil is, that unlike to some of other polo places, especially regarding Europe, we play polo throughout the year. The Helvetia Polo season runs from March to October and we still have competitions in the south of the country between November and February. Also comparing to Europe, the polo here is easier to access and cheaper to play. Another important point is that we have a lot of good amateur and professional Brazilian players playing here. This year, as an example, we held a tournament of 20 handicap goals, the Giorgio Moroni Cup, with a total of 10 teams and only two foreign players. This shows the strength and quality of our players.

The Helvetia Polo Country Club is the epicentre of polo in Brazil. Founded in 1975 by Giorgio Moroni, the Club inaugurated its new headquarters in 2014 in the city of…

Europe, Polo News

The heat is on for the Zürich Championship Medium Goal!

8. July 2019

Nestled among the picture postcard hills, in the north of Switzerland, the final of the Zürich Championship Medium Goal took place at Polo Park Zürich. For the 14th year running, the tournament founded and sponsored by Equilibrium patron Daniel Aegerter for both professionals and amateur players alike, rallied a cheery crowd of polo enthusiasts to watch spectacular play.

The match for fifth and sixth place began promptly at 10am, like a reliable Swiss watch. Luck was in for Equilibrium, who have previously won the Championship title over a handful of times, as they won their match 7 – 3 against Wascosa landing them fifth place.

BIO-R took on Banque Havilland for third and fourth spots, and in a very close match, BIO-R secured their place against Banque Havilland 5 goals to 4.

After two surprisingly competitive matches, and with Los Lobos seeking to defend their 2018 title, the final was set to be a nail biting one!

The first chukka set off at an exploding pace, and despite many players testing their ponies jumping skill over the boards, play was forward, fast and action packed. Great defense came from Los Lobos, who were undoubtedly seeking another win. However, when 2 goaler Roberto Rochelle had his chance, he played a faultless nearside forehand off the sideboards, and with a gentle tap in the direction of home, he clinched the first goal for team Grāff Capital.

Confident from their first chukka, Grāff Capital landed themselves very close to goal within opening seconds of the second chukka, only to be defended by Sébastien Le Page, Los Lobos. Play picked up speed, and the first 60 yard penalty was given to Los Lobos, converting it to their first goal, bringing the score even against Grāff Capital.

After yet another brief pony exchange, with both teams ensuring to not overheat their ponies, the third chukka was well underway. During the third minute, a further penalty awarded to Los Lobos resulted in another goal, bringing the score to 2 – 1. Facundo Kelly gained full ownership of the ball, and at speeds of over 30mph, and team Grāff Capital too far behind, he granted himself the opportunity to score the third goal for Los Lobos, closing the chukka on 3 – 1.

In the opening of the last chukka, Roberto demonstrated yet again how to score, and with the help of father and son duo Markus and Thommy Grāff defending off Los Lobos, Roberto notched a further two goals for Grāff Capital, making the game even. The coveted Zurich Championship was all to play for! Los Lobos had yet another opportunity with a 60 yard penalty, and Pierandrea Müller secured a much needed fourth goal. In a last minute attempt, Thommy Grāff, ridden off fiercely by Martin Podesta, travelled full speed down the pitch in hope of success, but time was up for Grāff Capital, as Los Lobos defended their title, winning the game 4 – 3.

After an exceptionally hot day for the 14th edition of this tournament, the players celebrated in the usual fashion, with a champagne shower, and guests enjoyed an afternoon Asado, in the much-needed shade of the clubhouse.

by: Rebecca Ponzio

Ranking:
1^st Los Lobos
2^ndGrāff Capital
3^rd BIO-R
4^th Banque Havilland
5^th Equilibrium
6^th Wascosa Polo